ROCKLAND COUNTY, N.Y. -- One of the most important fixtures in a home, toilets come in a variety of shapes and styles. From the traditional two- piece, to futuristic "smart" toilets, the seemingly endless array of bathroom options can be difficult to navigate. However, more and more homeowners are seeking a lift, and opting for both comfort and water-efficiency in their next upgrade. If you’re thinking of making a change, models with the EPA WaterSense label qualify for a $75 rebate from SUEZ.

For taller and older bathroom users, low-slung toilets can present a problem when sitting and standing. Normally 17 inches or less off the ground, standard height toilets are often low-profile and minimalist -- making them great for small spaces -- but don't offer the most comfortable user experience. As a result, taller "comfort-height" toilets have become a popular alternative for shoppers looking to combine aesthetics, water efficiency and comfort.

Generally 17-19 inches tall, comfort-height toilets sit at chair-height and make it easier to get on and off the toilet. Taller homeowners have become particularly fond of these fixtures. Older users and those suffering from reduced mobility have shown an interest in these higher seats, as standing and sitting are easier on the body.

“These models are gaining popularity among people who wish to age in place by adapting their homes to meet their needs for safety and flexibility,” said Chelsea Wulff, SUEZ conservation specialist. “They can also meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act. When combined with a grab bar, comfort height toilets give more independence to those who are injured, disabled or elderly.”

Although these comfort-height toilets are generally larger than most traditional options, an increase in height doesn't need to mean an increase in water use. In fact, many new offerings are EPA WaterSense certified and use less water than current fixtures in operation.

Toilets are by far the main source of water use in the home, accounting for nearly 30 percent of an average home's indoor water consumption. Older, inefficient toilets that use as much as six gallons per flush also happen to be a major source of wasted water in many homes.

Recent advancements have allowed toilets to use 1.28 gallons per flush or less while still providing equal or superior performance. “By selecting a WaterSense labeled toilet, home owners can use less water and lower their water bill,” said Wulff.

SUEZ is offering customers in Rockland and Orange counties an instant $75 rebate on the purchase of a new water efficient toilet. In addition to a more comfortable bathroom experience, comfort-height seats conserve water, saving homeowners money on their monthly water bills.